Connilyn Cossette: To Dwell Among Cedars

 By Kelly Bridgewater

Eight years ago, when the Philistines stole and then surrendered the ark of the covenant back to the Israelites, Eliora left her Philistine homeland to follow the ark to the community of Kiryat Yearim. There, the family she was adopted into has guarded the ark at the top of a mountain in seclusion. 

Ronen is a Levite musician determined to return the ark to Shiloh, where his tribe believes it belongs. He never expected that the Philistine girl he rescued years ago would now be part of the very family he's tasked to deceive.

As Ronen's attempts to charm Eliora lead them in unexpected directions, betrayal leaves Eliora with strained family ties and Ronen questioning his own loyalties. Ultimately, Eliora and Ronen are caught up in the battle for the soul of Israel and its future under the leadership of Samuel, the last judge before the era of the kings begins.

 

My Thoughts:

I can't imagine having to do all the research to craft a Biblical fiction novel. I don't read a lot in this genre because a lot of the stories are dry and really don't capture my attention. But I always make an exception after reading my first Connilyn Cossette novel. She does a wonderful way at crafting unique and memorable characters. I love how she takes a story or an element of the Biblical narrative and transforms it into a lively story. A story that takes me back to Biblical times. A story that comes to life on the pages. A story that makes me want to dive into the Bible more and read more about the story she has expended on. I know Cossette takes liberty with the line because it is Historical fiction, not a new discovery on the topic. With her newest story To Dwell Among Cedars, I love how Cossette took the idea of the Ark of the Covenant and made it come to life before my very eyes. A delightful story. I really had a hard time putting it down. The romance was nice and slow. I loved seeing how she didn't toss out the emotions so quickly. I loved how she allowed it to grow naturally. Overall, Cossette is a wonderful crafter of the Biblical fiction. I have enjoyed all her stories and can't wait to read what she crafts  next.

I received a complimentary copy of To Dwell Among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

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